Depression around the holidays may have may causes. Some of them include stress, weather, fatigue, unrealistic expectations and financial problems. Aside from realistic goal-setting and seeking support from loved ones, "Depression and the Holidays" on Depression-Guide.com recommends exercise as treatment for holiday depression.
Types of Exercises
The article "Depression; Prevention" from The Free Library recommends aerobic exercises such as walking or jogging. Even non-aerobic exercises like weightlifting can make you feel more accomplished and less irritable. These feelings can help you overcome holiday depression and lead you into the new year with better sleeping habits and appetite.
Laughing
"Laughing is great aerobic-exercise," says "How to Beat the Holiday Blues," an article on the County of San Diego website. Laughing works your abdominal muscles, cheers you up and is a natural form of exercise that can help you beat holiday depression. Watching comedy shows or spending time with friends, family members or children can help fight depression.
Exercise with a Partner
Exercising is essential, but it is difficult to motivate yourself, especially if you feel the holiday blues. Find a friend that suffers from the same problem as you and motivate each other. You may also seek out a friend that will cheer you up and pass on their energy to you. Exercise can be fun and does not need to be time consuming. If you do not have time to go to the gym, CVS Health Sources' "Special Report: Holiday Blues" recommends going for a walk with a friend.
Exercise Routine
If you have an established exercise routine, try not to abandon this routine during the holiday season. You will feel better, burn off holiday dinner calories and relieve stress if you continue to exercise, says CVS Health Sources. If you do not already exercise on a regular basis, consult your doctor for advice on starting a new routine If you are in better shape by New Year, you will feel better and enter the New Year with a more positive attitude.
